CRIME & LAW

Fond du Lac Man Charged For Threatening Official

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FOND DU LAC, Wis. District Attorney Eric J. Toney announced on July 1 that Bradley Hartmann made his initial court appearance after prosecutors charged him with making threats to kill a high-ranking Wisconsin Executive Office official based in Madison and members of the official’s family. Prosecutors filed three counts of terrorist threats and four counts of unlawful use of the telephone stemming from alleged messages left on June 28. Judge Christenson set Hartmann’s cash bond at $15,000 and scheduled his next hearing for July 23. The Fond du Lac Police Department is investigating the case with assistance from State Capitol Police. In a statement Toney said political violence "will never be tolerated in America" and that authorities will protect public officials regardless of party. The district attorney’s office cited an alleged voicemail in which Hartmann warned "You better protect VICTIM 1 right now" and another in which he repeatedly threatened to find and kill the official, used expletives and derogatory language referencing gays and lesbians, and said "Resign, Trump 24."

Prepared by Emily Rhodes and reviewed by editorial team.

Timeline of Events

June 28, 2026 — Alleged threatening voicemails placed to a Madison executive office.
June 29–30, 2026 — Investigation identifies Bradley Hartmann as the alleged caller.
July 1, 2026 — Charges filed; Hartmann makes initial court appearance.
July 1, 2026 — Judge Christenson sets $15,000 cash bond.
July 23, 2026 — Next scheduled court hearing in Dane County.

Why This Matters to You

This case is a reminder of the importance of safety and respect in our community. It's a wake-up call to be vigilant about threats of violence, especially those targeting public officials. If you hear something, say something. Your action can help keep our community safe.

The Bottom Line

Threats against public officials are serious crimes. They disrupt our democracy and can lead to severe consequences. This case shows that law enforcement takes these threats seriously. Worth forwarding if you know someone who needs a reminder about the gravity of such actions.